The complete know–how on optimizing lab protocols for handling every RNA species –– from the very small to the very large. In contrast to DNA, which is restricted to the single function of carrier of genetic information in the cell nucleus, RNA –– a closely related but biochemically very different molecule, is employed in a variety of functions. Consequently, there are dozens of functionally different RNA classes in the cell. Their analysis and selective enrichment requires special knowledge and special tools, many of which have been substantially improved in recent years. This is the first book on the market to cover the many new and important RNA species discovered over the past five years, and it explains current methods for their enrichment, separation and purification. Building up from general principles of RNA biochemistry and biophysics, it addresses the practical aspects relevant to the laboratory researcher throughout, while discussing the performance and potential problems of the methods discussed. From the contents: ∗ The need for RNA extraction, analysis and purification ∗ RNA solid phase extraction and chromatography ∗ Extraction and sample preparation of RNA ∗ Applications of RNA chromatography ∗ siRNA and miRNA: Analysis, purification and use An appendix contains a glossary with the important terms and techniques used in RNA analysis. By explaining the basic and working principles of the methods, the book allows biochemists and molecular biologists to gain much more expertise than by simply repeating a pre–formulated protocol, enabling them to select the procedure and materials best suited to the RNA analysis task at hand. As a result, they will be able to develop new protocols where needed and optimize and fine–tune the general purpose standard protocols that come with the purification equipment and instrumentation.